crushing
Quick Summary
The term "crushing" has multiple meanings, primarily related to applying force to alter the state of an object. It can mean to reduce something to a pulpy mass, as in preparing grapes for wine. It also refers to the act of stopping something by force, such as suppressing a rebellion.1
In an industrial context, crushing is a crucial step in preparing materials. For instance, abrasive materials like diamond, corundum, and silicon carbide are crushed to specific particle sizes for use in grinding wheels, sandpapers, and other industrial tools. This process is essential for manufacturing products that require precise components and smooth surfaces. The method of crushing can significantly impact the resulting grain shape, influencing its cutting action and strength.2
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
mineral processingCrushingSome ores occur in nature as mixtures of discrete mineral particles, such as gold in gravel beds and streams and diamonds in mines. These mixtures require little or no crushing, since the valuables are recoverable using other techniques (breaking up placer material in log…
Read MoreSome ores occur in nature as mixtures of discrete mineral particles, such as gold in gravel beds and streams and diamonds in mines. These mixtures require little or no crushing, since the valuables are recoverable using other techniques (breaking up placer material in log…
Read More- iron processingCrushing
As-mined iron ore contains lumps of varying size, the biggest being more than 1 metre (40 inches) across and the smallest about 1 millimetre (0.04 inch). The blast furnace, however, requires lumps between 7 and 25 millimetres, so the ore must be crushed to…
Read MoreAs-mined iron ore contains lumps of varying size, the biggest being more than 1 metre (40 inches) across and the smallest about 1 millimetre (0.04 inch). The blast furnace, however, requires lumps between 7 and 25 millimetres, so the ore must be crushed to…
Read More
